Missouri Association of Elementary School Principals

06/18/2026

What an incredible two days in CoMo at the 2026 New Principals Conference!

Together, MAESP and MissouriSecondary Principals, with support from MLDS, welcomed nearly 80 new school leaders from across Missouri as they prepare to begin their leadership journeys. There was a lot of learning, laughter, note-taking, and relationship building as they connected with colleagues who understand both the excitement and challenge of stepping into the role.

A special thank you to Dr. Mike Rutherford and Dr. Todd Whitaker for sharing their insight, encouragement, and practical wisdom!

To Missouri’s newest principals: someone saw leadership potential in you, you accepted because you believed you could make a difference, and we are honored to support & advocate for you as you grow into the leader your school community needs. Welcome to the school leadership!

06/16/2026

Our students across the nation deserve better.
They deserve much better.

The moves to the federal departments of Health and Human Services and Justice, respectively, would further dismantle an agency that President Donald Trump has vowed to close.

06/11/2026

Joining the celebration of the Missouri Leadership Academy (MLDS) 40th Anniversary Banquet, I had the highlight of reconnecting with Carole Kennedy, a true icon in Missouri and national school leadership! Carole served Missouri public schools for 38 years as a teacher and principal, including two years as Principal in Residence at the U.S. Department of Education in Washington, D.C. In 1988, she was recognized as Missouri's National Distinguished Principal, and in 1996-97 she served as President of the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP), representing elementary and middle-level school leaders across the nation.

Her contributions to education did not stop there. Following her retirement from the principalship, she continued to serve public education through national leadership, consulting work, and advocacy efforts. She also served as Director of Missouri Council of School Administrators Outreach program. In recognition of her impact on Missouri school leadership, MAESP honored her with the Outstanding Service Award in 2001.

As impressive as the accomplishments are, what stands out most is her continued commitment to education. Decades after serving as a principal, Carole remains engaged, informed, and passionate about public schools and the leaders who serve them. Our profession is stronger because of leaders like Carole Kennedy. It was a privilege to spend time with her and be reminded that leadership is measured not only by positions held, but by the lasting influence we have on others.

06/02/2026

Only two weeks away! An invitation to all new school leaders - join us at the New Principals Conference, June 16-17, 2026. Register today at https://www.maesp.com/New-Principals-Conference!

05/19/2026

An invitation to all new school leaders!

The New Principals Conference, June 16-17, 2026, is co-sponsored by the Missouri Association of Elementary School Principals (MAESP), the Missouri Association of Secondary School Principals (MoASSP), the Missouri Council of School Administrators (MCSA), and the Missouri Leadership Development System (MLDS).
Register Today!


https://www.maesp.com/New-Principals-Conference

05/14/2026

Today’s visit to Rock Bridge Elementary School included time & school tour with proud principal and outgoing MAESP officer Dr. Ryan Link.

Ryan has served Missouri school leaders with steady leadership, strong relationships, and a clear commitment to students, staff, and the profession. The culture at Rock Bridge reflects that leadership well.

Grateful for the opportunity to spend time with Ryan today and thank him for his service to MAESP and school leaders across Missouri.

05/12/2026

Leadership Academy is a worthwhile experience - highly recommend! We are proud of our partnership with MLDS in supporting school leaders!

From our friends at DESE
Leadership Academy Year 41 classes begin in June!
For more information and to register: http://bit.ly/LA-41
Registration Deadline is Friday, May 22nd

05/10/2026